The use of preservatives can be a polarizing subject. Sure these added substances can help extend the shelf life of many pantry staples, but is it possible these added ingredients may be doing more harm than good? The truth is there is a wide range of ingredients that are classified as preservatives. Some chemical preservatives have been linked to possible harmful side effects and some appear to have no adverse effects whatsoever, making it tough to know what’s what. However, if you’re tired of encountering ingredients on food labels that you can’t pronounce or don’t feel like taking a chance on potentially harmful preservatives, you might want to shop preservative-free. Here’s what you need to know.

What are Preservatives?

In the most basic terms, preservatives are chemical (or sometimes natural) substances that are added to products to prevent them from spoiling. This can include chemicals added to prevent fungal, yeast, mold, or bacterial growth, discoloration, or the product’s overall decomposition. Preservatives may also be added to improve texture, act as an emulsifier, or enhance taste.

Benefits of Shopping Preservative-Free

Shopping preservative-free means you’re enjoying food and products in their most natural form. You’re also reducing your exposure to potentially harmful ingredients. Aspartame, sulfites, benzoates, and yellow dye #5 have been linked with triggering sensitivities such as asthma symptoms. However, if you do choose to shop preservative-free, it’s important to pay close attention to the product’s expiration dates and signs of spoilage.

Not only will you enjoy 14 grams of protein per serving of this exceptional, sustainably sourced tuna, but it’s cooked only once to help retain nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and packed using just sea salt.

If you’re in the market for preservative-free paleo pantry staples, you’ll want to stock up on this brand, which offers grass-fed and pasture-raised jerky and beef sticks along with marinades free of refined sugar, dairy, or soy.

You may have heard of the “dirty dozen,” a list of 12 foods the Environmental Working Group has named the worst offenders in the grocery store aisle. Here’s a rundown on these nasty additives and how to steer clear of them.

How seriously can you take the term “natural” on a food label? The truth is that this claim can be a little confusing, no thanks to the FDA. Learn more about what you can expect when you run into this controversial wording.

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